Product Information

The iconic platypus is the fourth design featured in the exciting Australian Map Shaped Coin Series.

The platypus is a semi-aquatic mammal endemic to eastern Australia. With its duck-bill, beaver-tail and otter-like feet, the platypus’ unusual appearance baffled naturalists when they first encountered it, with some even considering it a fraud!

Innovative Map-Shaped Coin

The coin’s unique, map-shaped, coloured reverse depicts a classically struck design of a platypus set against a tropical rainforest setting with a waterfall and river. The inscription PLATYPUS also appears in the design with The Perth Mint’s traditional ‘P’ mintmark.

99.9% Pure Silver

Struck by The Perth Mint from 99.9% pure silver, the coin features delightful original artistry and is captured in the distinctive shape of Australia.

Australian Legal Tender

Issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965, the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the monetary denomination are depicted on the coin’s obverse.

Limited Mintage

No more than 6,000 of these Australian Map Shaped Coin Series – Platypus 2013 1oz Silver Coins will be issued worldwide.

Numbered Certificate of Authenticity

Each coin is accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.

Presentation Packaging

The coin is housed in a classic presentation case and custom-designed shipper.

Technical Specifications

Silver Content (Troy oz)

1.0

Monetary Denomination (AUD)

1

Fineness (% purity)

99.9

Minimum Gross Weight (g)

31.135

Maximum Diameter (mm)

40.60

Maximum Thickness (mm)

4.00

Maximum Mintage

6,000

Designer

Ing Ing Jong

The truly unique platypus is the fourth design featured in the Australian Map Shaped Coin Series which showcases native Australian animals in their natural environment.

The platypus is native to eastern Australia and inhabits freshwater rivers and lakes where it creates burrows for shelter and protection. The platypus has a streamline body and a broad, flat tail covered in a dense, waterproof fur to keep it warm in cold water.

Its duck-like bill is covered with soft leathery skin with sensitive nerves that can detect faint electrical fields generated by the small aquatic animals that they prey on. This electroreception is extremely rare among mammals and enables the platypus to forage for food underwater with its eyes closed.